Blackwater River Loop Trail
From David S Johnston on the Facebook WV Waterfalls Group. Thanks for the info David.
"I want to give a heads up to the waterfall community about details of the plans for the Blackwater River Loop trail between Thomas and Davis, that have just been released. This trail would use a number of existing trails to connect Thomas and Davis, and would cross both Pendleton Creek and the North Fork of the Blackwater. The scoping documents for the National Forest portion have just been released (link in comments), and comments will be invited.
Bridges and viewing structures are planned at waterfalls at both crossings. The Pendleton Run crossing appears to be just below Pendleton #2. The other would be just below Douglas Falls. See plan diagram below.
Note the fence shown in the It appears that this fence would prevent access down to the base of Douglas Falls, at least by the current means. This is apparently intended, based on the following from the scoping document: "Additionally, a fence will be installed from Long Run Bridge to Douglas Falls Access. This fence aims to prevent trail users from accessing the North Fork of the Blackwater River. Douglas Falls, situated along the North Fork Blackwater River, contains Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) resulting from historical coal mining and coke production. These AMD impairments can create slippery surfaces on the rocks, posing a significant safety risk for trail users attempting to gain access. Furthermore, the fence will help prevent trail users from encroaching on private property along the rail trail section between Long Run Bridge and Douglas Falls."
I will be asking for clarification about whether traditional access to both Douglas and the falls on Pendleton Run will be maintained, and will try to report back."
This is what is being proposed and will help some to understand the maps in the second link below.
Maps of the proposed new trail showing new fencing and bridging as proposed in the above link.
